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0:00:04 > 0:00:09- It's always nice to return home - to Wales after travelling the world.
0:00:10 > 0:00:16- In this programme, - I'm visiting four parts of Wales...
0:00:17 > 0:00:21- ..to meet interesting people and - perform a few songs along the way.
0:00:38 > 0:00:41- I'm starting my journey - from the south this time.
0:00:41 > 0:00:45- My car is already pointing - towards the Rhondda Valley.
0:00:45 > 0:00:48- My first stop - is Cilfynydd by Pontypridd.
0:01:04 > 0:01:08- I've wanted to come here for years - and that's due to one person...
0:01:08 > 0:01:13- ..the world famous opera singer, - the late Sir Geraint Evans.
0:01:14 > 0:01:18- I'm here to find out more - about his childhood.
0:01:18 > 0:01:21- The story starts in William Street.
0:01:21 > 0:01:27- A street that raised a number - of famous faces, Stuart Burrows...
0:01:27 > 0:01:32- ..the international tenor and Merlyn - Rees the former Home Secretary.
0:01:32 > 0:01:36- Sir Geraint's niece, Jayne Pearce, - is here to show us around.
0:01:36 > 0:01:36- How are you, Jayne?
0:01:36 > 0:01:38- How are you, Jayne?- - Fine, thanks, yourself?
0:01:38 > 0:01:40- It's nice to meet you.
0:01:40 > 0:01:44- It's the first time - I've been to 55 William Street.
0:01:44 > 0:01:47- This is where everything - started for Sir Geraint.
0:01:47 > 0:01:50- This is where - he was born and raised.
0:01:51 > 0:01:56- His mother died when he was young. - He was raised by his grandparents.
0:01:56 > 0:02:01- His father went to live with his - parents at the top of the village.
0:02:01 > 0:02:05- His mother, Charlotte May, - was a singer.
0:02:05 > 0:02:07- The whole family was musical.
0:02:07 > 0:02:08- The whole family was musical.- - Very interesting.
0:02:08 > 0:02:10- Where are we going next?
0:02:10 > 0:02:12- Where are we going next?- - Up to show you where Bethel was.
0:02:12 > 0:02:14- That's the chapel - Uncle Geraint attended.
0:02:18 > 0:02:22- Sir Geraint has been a hero of mine - since I was very young.
0:02:22 > 0:02:24- He was influential on my career.
0:02:25 > 0:02:28- In his time, - he was an international opera star.
0:02:28 > 0:02:32- He had a career at the Royal Opera - House in Covent Garden...
0:02:32 > 0:02:34- ..which lasted over 30 years.
0:02:35 > 0:02:37- We're on the site - of the old Bethel chapel.
0:02:38 > 0:02:40- There are flats here now.
0:02:40 > 0:02:44- It's an important place in - Sir Geraint's musical development.
0:02:45 > 0:02:50- This is where he got - his opportunity to perform.
0:02:50 > 0:02:52- He developed his skills here.
0:02:52 > 0:02:55- They learned oratorios, cantatas.
0:02:55 > 0:02:58- They learned to perform operas - and all sorts.
0:02:59 > 0:03:02- Was there anyone who supported that?
0:03:02 > 0:03:03- Auntie Bessie.
0:03:04 > 0:03:07- She, I'm sure, - would have pushed him to perform.
0:03:08 > 0:03:11- I had a similar person, - Auntie Alice.
0:03:11 > 0:03:16- We weren't related but she was - a part of the chapel in Pantglas.
0:03:17 > 0:03:20- I can see the importance - of people like that.
0:03:21 > 0:03:25- It's important - in those very early days.
0:03:25 > 0:03:28- The days when you're gaining - your confidence.
0:03:34 > 0:03:38- The next place on our journey - is the community hall...
0:03:38 > 0:03:40- ..or the old workers' hall.
0:03:40 > 0:03:45- An important social space for the - village during Sir Geraint's time.
0:03:45 > 0:03:50- At the age of 16, he performed - Elijah by Mendelssohn here.
0:03:51 > 0:03:54- The production was in full costume.
0:03:54 > 0:03:55- It was a production, not a concert.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57- It was a production, not a concert.- - Oh, yes.
0:03:57 > 0:04:00- Bethel chapel was too small - to hold it.
0:04:01 > 0:04:03- It was a sell out, of course.
0:04:04 > 0:04:07- They had to put on - an extra performance.
0:04:07 > 0:04:11- This is when he started - to make his name locally.
0:04:11 > 0:04:15- People asked him to perform - in local concerts after that.
0:04:16 > 0:04:19- In the family, - we called him the Godfather.
0:04:19 > 0:04:22- He was the head of the family.
0:04:23 > 0:04:27- They were approachable, gentle, - down-to-earth...
0:04:27 > 0:04:30- ..and never forgot their roots.
0:04:31 > 0:04:34- In Wales, we like to talk about - a person's home patch.
0:04:34 > 0:04:35- Yes.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38- A close-knit community.
0:04:38 > 0:04:42- It was a great stage for an - international career. Thank you.
0:04:44 > 0:04:49- I'll learn more about this special - man's career along the journey.
0:04:51 > 0:04:55- The Valleys have produced famous - musicians over the years.
0:04:56 > 0:04:59- Up the road from Cilfynydd - is the Rhondda Valley.
0:04:59 > 0:05:04- There's only one way to get - the best view of the valley...
0:05:04 > 0:05:06- ..and that is from the air.
0:05:08 > 0:05:12- Joining me in the helicopter - is Gavin Ashcroft.
0:05:13 > 0:05:15- His roots are in the Rhondda.
0:05:17 > 0:05:21- Do you know where you are, Gavin? - Do you know the roads?
0:05:22 > 0:05:24- It's different from the air.
0:05:27 > 0:05:31- The first town we reach on the edge - of the valley is Pontypridd.
0:05:32 > 0:05:36- From the air, we can see a memorial - to Evan James and James James.
0:05:36 > 0:05:42- They composed our national anthem - Mae Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.
0:05:43 > 0:05:47- This is Porth where the - valley separates in two...
0:05:47 > 0:05:50- ..to Rhondda Fawr and Rhondda Fach.
0:05:53 > 0:05:56- As we travel - up the Rhondda Fach Valley...
0:05:56 > 0:05:59- ..it's hard to believe - the world is so green...
0:05:59 > 0:06:02- ..considering how much industry - there was here 150 years ago.
0:06:04 > 0:06:10- There were around 80 coal mines and - over 100,000 people living here.
0:06:11 > 0:06:15- From the air, we can appreciate - the hundreds of houses...
0:06:15 > 0:06:19- ..and the unique shape - of the terraced houses.
0:06:19 > 0:06:23- As we fly over Penrhys, - there's an incredible history here.
0:06:24 > 0:06:27- There was a monastery - at the top of Penrhys.
0:06:28 > 0:06:32- Catholics would come here - on a pilgrimage every year.
0:06:32 > 0:06:36- When Henry VIII - suppressed the monasteries...
0:06:36 > 0:06:40- ..he took the statue - of the Virgin Mary to London.
0:06:40 > 0:06:45- Today, another Virgin Mary - stands in her place.
0:06:47 > 0:06:52- We're flying over Tylorstown now - which is called Pendyrus in Welsh.
0:06:52 > 0:06:55- There is a world famous - male voice choir from here.
0:06:56 > 0:07:01- As we pass Tylorstown, - we reach the next town, Ferndale.
0:07:01 > 0:07:05- A lot of famous people come from - Ferndale or Glynrhedynog in Welsh.
0:07:06 > 0:07:09- Stanley Baker - who was in Zulu is from here.
0:07:09 > 0:07:12- Stella is filmed here.
0:07:16 > 0:07:18- I've been to Ferndale several times.
0:07:19 > 0:07:21- I'd go to rehearse - with Brian Davies.
0:07:22 > 0:07:24- He was a very nice man.
0:07:24 > 0:07:28- He had a huge grand piano - in the small parlour.
0:07:29 > 0:07:34- His wife would make fish and chips - after every rehearsal.
0:07:34 > 0:07:36- Great.
0:07:38 > 0:07:41- As we reach Maerdy - at the top of the valley...
0:07:42 > 0:07:44- ..where the last coal mine - closed...
0:07:44 > 0:07:47- ..the helicopter turns towards - the Rhondda Fawr valley.
0:07:48 > 0:07:50- We're coming down to Treorchy now.
0:07:52 > 0:07:53- Treorchy is home...
0:07:53 > 0:07:57- ..to one of the most famous - male voice choirs in the world.
0:07:57 > 0:08:01- Treorchy is the home - of the Park & Dare Theatre.
0:08:02 > 0:08:04- It's the Miners' Hall.
0:08:05 > 0:08:09- The Miners themselves paid - for it to be opened...
0:08:09 > 0:08:11- ..like many others in the valley.
0:08:12 > 0:08:15- They had to pay a penny for every - pound they earned every week.
0:08:16 > 0:08:21- This is how this wonderful workers' - hall was built. It's now a theatre.
0:08:26 > 0:08:32- Ton Pentre is home to the famous - brass band the Cory Band.
0:08:32 > 0:08:36- I would say that they are one of the - best brass bands in the world.
0:08:36 > 0:08:41- There used to be a brass band - in every village in the valley.
0:08:41 > 0:08:45- They rose with the chapels - and the coal mines.
0:08:48 > 0:08:52- Seeing the valley from the air was - an incredible experience.
0:08:52 > 0:08:55- It's hard to believe - that so much culture...
0:08:55 > 0:08:58- ..has grown from the coal industry - in the Valleys.
0:09:00 > 0:09:07- The Rhondda Heritage Park is based - at the old Lewis Merthyr Colliery.
0:09:08 > 0:09:13- The brass band that shares that name - is considered the oldest in Rhondda.
0:09:14 > 0:09:17- They're joining me - to perform a famous hymn...
0:09:17 > 0:09:21- ..that was first performed - down the road in Hopkinstown.
0:09:28 > 0:09:34- # Lo, between the myrtles standing
0:09:34 > 0:09:39- # One who merits well my love
0:09:40 > 0:09:45- # Though His worth I guess but dimly
0:09:46 > 0:09:51- # High all earthly things above
0:09:51 > 0:09:54- # Happy morning
0:09:54 > 0:09:57- # Happy morning
0:09:57 > 0:10:03- # When at last I see Him clear
0:10:03 > 0:10:09- # When at last I see Him clear
0:10:18 > 0:10:24- # Rose of Sharon, so men name Him
0:10:24 > 0:10:29- # White and red his cheeks adorn
0:10:30 > 0:10:35- # Store untold of earthly treasure
0:10:36 > 0:10:41- # Will His merit put to scorn
0:10:42 > 0:10:45- # Friend of sinners
0:10:46 > 0:10:48- # Friend of sinners
0:10:49 > 0:10:54- # He their pilot o'er the deep
0:10:54 > 0:11:01- # He their pilot o'er the deep
0:11:08 > 0:11:13- # What can weigh - with me henceforward
0:11:14 > 0:11:20- # All the idols of the earth
0:11:20 > 0:11:26- # One and all I here proclaim them
0:11:26 > 0:11:31- # Matched with Jesus, nothing worth
0:11:32 > 0:11:38- # O to rest me! O to rest me
0:11:39 > 0:11:44- # All my lifetime in His love
0:11:45 > 0:11:52- # All my lifetime in His love
0:11:52 > 0:11:56- # Amen
0:11:56 > 0:12:00- # Amen
0:12:01 > 0:12:04- # Amen
0:12:05 > 0:12:13- # Amen #
0:12:14 > 0:12:14- .
0:12:17 > 0:12:17- Subtitles
0:12:17 > 0:12:19- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:12:23 > 0:12:28- I've left the Rhondda Valley - for the Ceredigion coast.
0:12:28 > 0:12:32- I've reached the county's largest - seaside town, Aberystwyth.
0:12:32 > 0:12:35- I'm on the trail - of more of Wales' musical history.
0:12:36 > 0:12:42- It has a wonderful pier dating back - to 1865 and a lovely promenade.
0:12:42 > 0:12:47- The town was a popular holiday - destination in Victorian times.
0:12:47 > 0:12:52- It still attracts visitors - in their thousands to this day.
0:12:53 > 0:12:57- The sea and educational institutions - influence the town heavily.
0:12:58 > 0:13:02- Aberystwyth is home to the - University of Wales' oldest college.
0:13:03 > 0:13:06- We've reached - the National Library of Wales.
0:13:07 > 0:13:10- One of the town's main institutions.
0:13:10 > 0:13:15- I have to say, I'm looking forward - to going into this building...
0:13:17 > 0:13:21- ..to see a few of the treasures - that are kept here.
0:13:23 > 0:13:26- Nia Mai Daniel is the Head - of the Welsh Music Archive.
0:13:27 > 0:13:31- She is going to show me some - of the library's rare collections.
0:13:31 > 0:13:32- How are you, Nia?
0:13:32 > 0:13:34- How are you, Nia?- - Hello, welcome to the library.
0:13:34 > 0:13:35- Thank you.
0:13:36 > 0:13:39- This manuscript we can see here.
0:13:39 > 0:13:43- It's a manuscript of the earliest - existing music from Wales.
0:13:44 > 0:13:46- It dates back to the 14th Century.
0:13:47 > 0:13:50- It's wonderful that it still exists.
0:13:51 > 0:13:55- It shows there was a musical culture - in Wales during the middle ages.
0:13:56 > 0:13:59- This manuscript is called - the Penpont Antiphonal.
0:13:59 > 0:14:02- It came to the library from Penpont.
0:14:03 > 0:14:04- It's wonderful.
0:14:05 > 0:14:11- You can see where the monk - who put this down...
0:14:11 > 0:14:16- ..had fun by drawing small faces.
0:14:16 > 0:14:19- They're there next to the notes.
0:14:19 > 0:14:22- You've got the words in Latin.
0:14:22 > 0:14:24- The musical notes are there.
0:14:24 > 0:14:28- And there are a few funny faces - in there too.
0:14:29 > 0:14:30- Incredible.
0:14:30 > 0:14:33- There's something else - of interest here.
0:14:34 > 0:14:37- This is a collection - of folk songs...
0:14:37 > 0:14:41- ..presented - at Llangollen Eisteddfod in 1858.
0:14:42 > 0:14:46- It was a mystery as to who - presented this to the competition.
0:14:47 > 0:14:49- It was placed - under the nom de plume "Orpheus".
0:14:49 > 0:14:52- Only very recently, when Mered...
0:14:52 > 0:14:55- ..Meredydd Evans - researched the handwriting...
0:14:55 > 0:14:59- ..did they find it was James James - who had presented the work.
0:14:59 > 0:15:02- He, of course, was the composer - of Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.
0:15:03 > 0:15:06- As you look through this manuscript.
0:15:07 > 0:15:10- We can see - that it includes Glan Rhondda.
0:15:12 > 0:15:15- Glan Rhondda - was the original name...
0:15:16 > 0:15:19- ..for the melody - that became Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.
0:15:20 > 0:15:22- This is iconic.
0:15:22 > 0:15:24- Yes, yes it is.
0:15:25 > 0:15:26- Shall we move on?
0:15:26 > 0:15:29- I'm so lucky today!
0:15:31 > 0:15:34- You may be familiar with - Leila Megane, the opera singer.
0:15:35 > 0:15:38- Are you telling me - this is Leila Megane's scrap book?
0:15:39 > 0:15:41- This is Leila Megane's scrap book.
0:15:41 > 0:15:43- It's her personal one.
0:15:43 > 0:15:44- It's her personal one.- - Yes.
0:15:44 > 0:15:47- She kept clippings - during her career...
0:15:48 > 0:15:51- ..including telegrams - she got from famous people.
0:15:51 > 0:15:55- Do you want to see the telegram - from Lloyd George?
0:15:55 > 0:15:56- Um, yes.
0:15:57 > 0:15:59- The telegram is here.
0:15:59 > 0:16:02- He sends this and says...
0:16:03 > 0:16:06- "Place: Cromwell Road, SW7."
0:16:07 > 0:16:09- Following message from Paris...
0:16:10 > 0:16:12- "I have heard with great pleasure...
0:16:13 > 0:16:16- "..of your splendid success - at Covent Garden."
0:16:16 > 0:16:20- "Please accept my sincere - congratulations...
0:16:20 > 0:16:24- ..together with best wishes - in future, D. Lloyd-George.
0:16:24 > 0:16:31- After the unique experience - of the library's special archives...
0:16:31 > 0:16:34- ..it's time to leave Aberystwyth...
0:16:34 > 0:16:37- ..and head down the coast road - to Aberaeron.
0:16:37 > 0:16:41- Another wonderful seaside town - in Ceredigion.
0:16:42 > 0:16:44- You can see why people flock here.
0:16:44 > 0:16:46- Aberaeron is wonderful.
0:16:47 > 0:16:52- Sir Geraint Evans would come here - on holiday in his youth...
0:16:52 > 0:16:54- ..and made his home here.
0:16:54 > 0:16:57- This place - was very close to his heart.
0:16:57 > 0:17:00- You could see him head out to sea...
0:17:00 > 0:17:03- ..on his boat - "Y Marchog" - The Cavalier.
0:17:03 > 0:17:05- He'd head out there to relax.
0:17:08 > 0:17:11- I've been invited by his son, - Huw Evans...
0:17:11 > 0:17:16- ..to view some of the musical - treasures kept at his house.
0:17:19 > 0:17:22- This is very emotional for me.
0:17:24 > 0:17:27- This is the famous cover - of his book.
0:17:28 > 0:17:32- Doesn't he just radiate authority?
0:17:33 > 0:17:35- That distinctive white hair.
0:17:37 > 0:17:39- He had this strength on stage.
0:17:40 > 0:17:42- That's what he had - when he portrayed characters.
0:17:44 > 0:17:46- These are all his characters.
0:17:48 > 0:17:49- Wow, Huw.
0:17:49 > 0:17:53- I've put these out for you, Bryn, - to have a look at.
0:17:53 > 0:17:57- There are scores and pictures here - I thought might be of interest.
0:17:58 > 0:17:59- This is from 1948.
0:18:00 > 0:18:04- 1948 was his first debut at - Covent Garden as the Nightwatchman.
0:18:04 > 0:18:10- The Nightwatchman is a character - in Die Meistersinger by Wagner.
0:18:10 > 0:18:15- It's a page or two of music but an - important part at the end of Act II.
0:18:16 > 0:18:18- Wow, this was his first!
0:18:19 > 0:18:21- His very first.
0:18:21 > 0:18:23- His very first.- - This is amazing for me.
0:18:23 > 0:18:26- It's an important role, - the Nightwatchman.
0:18:26 > 0:18:28- Sir George Solti always said...
0:18:28 > 0:18:31- .."There is never - a small role in opera."
0:18:31 > 0:18:33- "You have to remember this."
0:18:33 > 0:18:38- Of course, your father made - that phone call on my behalf...
0:18:38 > 0:18:41- ..for an audition - with Sir George Solti.
0:18:42 > 0:18:45- He could see talent, Bryn, - couldn't he?
0:18:45 > 0:18:47- I hope so.
0:18:47 > 0:18:49- This one may interest you.
0:18:49 > 0:18:52- When Dad finished - singing in San Francisco...
0:18:52 > 0:18:57- ..they put a compilation together - of the operas he sung there...
0:18:57 > 0:19:01- ..with various artists which - you might find interesting to see.
0:19:01 > 0:19:03- It was a very good - Welsh contingent.
0:19:05 > 0:19:09- Look who's singing Fenton - in Falstaff, Stuart Burrows.
0:19:11 > 0:19:12- Who else?
0:19:13 > 0:19:16- Nanetta sung by Margaret Price.
0:19:17 > 0:19:20- Three from Wales on the same stage - in San Francisco.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25- They've kept good things. - I'm sure my mother does this too.
0:19:26 > 0:19:27- Well, I hope so.
0:19:29 > 0:19:31- Hey, "Y Marchog" - The Cavalier.
0:19:31 > 0:19:35- I have an incredibly clear - memory of this.
0:19:36 > 0:19:41- Sir Geraint came on the stage - and sang Y Marchog by Joseph Parry.
0:19:41 > 0:19:45- He removed his headdress - and threw it on the floor.
0:19:46 > 0:19:50- # See a loyal gallant knight
0:19:50 > 0:19:54- # On his war horse, see him! #
0:19:54 > 0:19:59- Huw, this has been such an emotional - journey around your house.
0:19:59 > 0:19:59- Thank you very much.
0:19:59 > 0:20:01- Thank you very much.- - You're very welcome.
0:20:01 > 0:20:05- Dad would have been very proud - of you to have had a look around...
0:20:05 > 0:20:07- ..at some of his things as well.
0:20:07 > 0:20:07- You're very welcome.
0:20:07 > 0:20:09- You're very welcome.- - Thanks very much.
0:20:09 > 0:20:13- # The heavens will forever protect
0:20:14 > 0:20:22- # The honour of pure Wales #
0:20:25 > 0:20:29- By now, I've left Aberaeron - for New Quay.
0:20:29 > 0:20:33- It's been an emotional journey - in Ceredigion...
0:20:33 > 0:20:36- ..poring through the archives.
0:20:37 > 0:20:39- I'm on the trail - of a Welsh icon's history.
0:20:39 > 0:20:43- I've got a huge interest - in this village...
0:20:43 > 0:20:47- ..because of its links - to Dylan Thomas and Under Milk Wood.
0:20:51 > 0:20:55- Dylan Thomas lived here for a period - during the Second World War.
0:20:56 > 0:21:00- It's thought that the place inspired - parts of Under Milk Wood...
0:21:02 > 0:21:04- ..and the legendary village - Llareggub.
0:21:07 > 0:21:11- I'm eager to hear more of what - he got up to while living here...
0:21:11 > 0:21:14- ..from local author Sue Passmore.
0:21:15 > 0:21:17- Sue, we're in The Black Lion.
0:21:17 > 0:21:20- I hear it was a favourite - of Dylan Thomas.
0:21:21 > 0:21:24- It was. Dylan and Caitlin - came here frequently.
0:21:24 > 0:21:28- They'd leave the baby - outside in the pram.
0:21:28 > 0:21:31- They left the baby outside!
0:21:31 > 0:21:32- For hours.
0:21:33 > 0:21:36- There was a lady who lived - across the road.
0:21:36 > 0:21:39- She used to take the baby - into her home.
0:21:40 > 0:21:43- She'd keep an eye on him - while they were here.
0:21:43 > 0:21:48- Sometimes Dylan would run out - without paying the bill.
0:21:48 > 0:21:51- I don't remember Dylan, - I'm too young.
0:21:51 > 0:21:54- My father remembered Dylan well.
0:21:54 > 0:21:59- Dylan fell down the stairs - at the Dolau Inn.
0:21:59 > 0:22:01- They were very steep.
0:22:01 > 0:22:05- He cut his head and my father - had to patch him up after that.
0:22:06 > 0:22:08- Did he pay?
0:22:09 > 0:22:12- My father didn't say.
0:22:12 > 0:22:15- But knowing Dylan, - he might not have paid.
0:22:16 > 0:22:20- The village may have inspired - Dylan with the characters...
0:22:21 > 0:22:26- ..and served as the basis - for his fictional village Llareggub.
0:22:28 > 0:22:32- Of course, he used some characters - like Tom Polly, Captain Cat.
0:22:32 > 0:22:34- You remember Captain Cat.
0:22:34 > 0:22:37- Then there was Cherry Jones.
0:22:37 > 0:22:42- He inspired Cherry Owen - in Under Milk Wood.
0:22:42 > 0:22:45- What about the Reverend Eli Jenkins.
0:22:46 > 0:22:50- I'm not sure if Eli Jenkins - was one of the local people.
0:22:50 > 0:22:54- I think Dylan had - thought about combining...
0:22:54 > 0:22:58- ..a lot of the people - he knew in the church.
0:22:59 > 0:23:01- I think Eli Jenkins - is an amalgamation.
0:23:02 > 0:23:08- In this wonderful area - by St Ina church in Llanina...
0:23:09 > 0:23:12- ..Dylan Thomas - found inspiration to write.
0:23:12 > 0:23:16- This is where I'll perform - the famous prayer from the play...
0:23:16 > 0:23:18- ..with the Ar Ol Tri choir.
0:23:19 > 0:23:24- # Every morning when I wake
0:23:24 > 0:23:29- # Dear Lord, a little prayer I make
0:23:32 > 0:23:37- # Oh, please to keep Thy loving eye
0:23:37 > 0:23:43- # On all poor creatures born to die
0:23:46 > 0:23:52- # And every evening at sundown
0:23:53 > 0:23:59- # I ask a blessing on the town
0:24:02 > 0:24:08- # For whether we last - the night or no
0:24:10 > 0:24:18- # I'm sure it's always touch-and-go
0:24:21 > 0:24:29- # Oh let us all see another day!
0:24:29 > 0:24:37- # Bless us all, this night, I pray
0:24:38 > 0:24:45- # And to the sun, we all will bow
0:24:46 > 0:24:56- # And say, good-bye - but just for now!
0:25:00 > 0:25:06- # Oh, let us see another day
0:25:07 > 0:25:14- # Bless us this night, I pray
0:25:17 > 0:25:25- # And to the Son, we all will bow
0:25:28 > 0:25:32- # And say, good-bye
0:25:34 > 0:25:42- # But just for now! #
0:25:52 > 0:25:52- .
0:25:56 > 0:25:56- Subtitles
0:25:56 > 0:25:58- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:26:02 > 0:26:08- I'm heading from West Wales - to Mid Wales to the Penllyn area.
0:26:08 > 0:26:10- It's a part - of Snowdonia National Park.
0:26:11 > 0:26:14- This area is famous - for Welsh-language culture.
0:26:15 > 0:26:18- It's extremely important - to the community.
0:26:18 > 0:26:22- Llanuwchllyn is one - of the five parishes of Penllyn.
0:26:22 > 0:26:27- That's where I start my journey - of getting to know the area.
0:26:27 > 0:26:31- The village is famous - for producing two academics.
0:26:31 > 0:26:36- Sir Owen Morgan Edwards and his son, - Sir Ifan ab Owen Edwards.
0:26:37 > 0:26:42- He went on to set up - Urdd Gobaith Cymru in 1922.
0:26:42 > 0:26:44- Without him and the Urdd...
0:26:45 > 0:26:49- ..I would never have had - the opportunities I got in my youth.
0:26:51 > 0:26:55- I couldn't visit Llanuwchllyn - without seeing my friend...
0:26:56 > 0:26:58- ..and opera singer - Mary Lloyd-Davies.
0:26:59 > 0:27:01- Hello!
0:27:05 > 0:27:06- It's nice to see you.
0:27:06 > 0:27:07- It's nice to see you.- - You too!
0:27:07 > 0:27:09- Come in.
0:27:10 > 0:27:12- Right, come and eat something.
0:27:12 > 0:27:14- You're a growing boy, Bryn!
0:27:14 > 0:27:16- You're a growing boy, Bryn!- - Tea for two!
0:27:16 > 0:27:18- Tea for two, yes!
0:27:19 > 0:27:20- Help yourself.
0:27:20 > 0:27:22- Help yourself.- - This is incredible.
0:27:23 > 0:27:24- You like scones.
0:27:24 > 0:27:25- You like scones.- - Yes, I do.
0:27:26 > 0:27:27- That's enough.
0:27:27 > 0:27:30- Would you like a scone - with your cream?
0:27:31 > 0:27:33- They're nice, aren't they?
0:27:33 > 0:27:37- It's nice to be here. You've lived - in Llanuwchllyn for years.
0:27:38 > 0:27:41- What's so special about the area - and the community?
0:27:42 > 0:27:46- I know everyone here. All my - father's family come from here.
0:27:46 > 0:27:49- I learned to sing from Mam.
0:27:50 > 0:27:53- Mam conducted a children's choir - when I was three.
0:27:53 > 0:27:56- There was a lot of music - in the village.
0:27:56 > 0:28:00- There were many choirs here - when I was young.
0:28:00 > 0:28:04- There was an aelwyd choir, - a young farmers' choir...
0:28:04 > 0:28:07- ..the main choir, cerdd dant choir.
0:28:07 > 0:28:08- We were always busy.
0:28:10 > 0:28:13- When I went to London - in my university days...
0:28:14 > 0:28:17- ..I really looked forward - to coming home.
0:28:17 > 0:28:21- I'd count the tunnels - on the train to Bangor.
0:28:23 > 0:28:24- I drove here today.
0:28:26 > 0:28:28- It's a wonderful journey.
0:28:28 > 0:28:29- Yes, it is.
0:28:30 > 0:28:33- Like you, I looked forward - to the end of the term.
0:28:34 > 0:28:38- Once you came through Bala and you - got to the start of the lake...
0:28:39 > 0:28:43- ..you can see the village - at the base of the Aran mountain.
0:28:43 > 0:28:45- That's it, your home.
0:28:45 > 0:28:50- We've got a journey to make now. - I want to see these places.
0:28:50 > 0:28:51- Thank you for the warm welcome.
0:28:51 > 0:28:54- Thank you for the warm welcome.- - You're welcome, I'm glad to see you.
0:29:00 > 0:29:02- On one of Wales' little trains...
0:29:02 > 0:29:04- ..The Bala Lake Railway...
0:29:05 > 0:29:09- ..I'm going on now to see more of - the area with a local woman...
0:29:10 > 0:29:11- ..Llinos Jones-Williams.
0:29:12 > 0:29:12- Llinos!
0:29:12 > 0:29:14- Llinos!- - Good morning, Bryn. How are you?
0:29:15 > 0:29:15- How are you?
0:29:15 > 0:29:16- How are you?- - Fine, thanks.
0:29:17 > 0:29:21- I'm eager to get on the - little train. Where are we going?
0:29:21 > 0:29:24- The train goes to Bala - but we're going to Llangower.
0:29:25 > 0:29:26- Lead the way.
0:29:43 > 0:29:46- We're going past some fields now.
0:29:47 > 0:29:53- These fields held the first ever - Urdd camp back in 1928.
0:29:53 > 0:29:59- They had a row of tents and only - boys were allowed in the camp.
0:30:00 > 0:30:04- Apparently, - Sir Ifan himself did the cooking.
0:30:04 > 0:30:08- Apparently he wasn't much of a cook!
0:30:08 > 0:30:11- He had one large cauldron.
0:30:12 > 0:30:14- Everything was cooked - in the cauldron.
0:30:14 > 0:30:16- People didn't go there for the food.
0:30:16 > 0:30:19- People didn't go there for the food.- - Glan-llyn's food has improved a lot!
0:30:19 > 0:30:23- The first campers would have - travelled on this line.
0:30:27 > 0:30:30- We can see Bala lake on the horizon.
0:30:30 > 0:30:32- Yes, we can.
0:30:32 > 0:30:34- Wales' largest natural lake.
0:30:36 > 0:30:38- You can see Glan-llyn - across the water.
0:30:39 > 0:30:41- I've never been to Glan-llyn.
0:30:41 > 0:30:45- I never stayed in Glan-llyn - when I was younger.
0:30:45 > 0:30:47- That's awful. It makes me sad.
0:30:48 > 0:30:49- I feel a huge loss.
0:30:50 > 0:30:52- Oh, absolutely.
0:30:54 > 0:31:00- We're about to reach - the wonderful Llangower beach.
0:31:02 > 0:31:05- As you can see, - it's paradise in the summer.
0:31:05 > 0:31:07- It's wonderful.
0:31:09 > 0:31:15- It's easy to see how this paradise - inspired the famous folk song.
0:31:16 > 0:31:19- # Farewell - to the parish of Llangywer
0:31:20 > 0:31:23- # And the fair town of Bala
0:31:24 > 0:31:30- # Farewell to my dear love - though I shall name no-one
0:31:31 > 0:31:37- # I'm off to the land - of the English, with a leaden heart
0:31:38 > 0:31:44- # To dance to the harp - and to play to the drums
0:31:46 > 0:31:53- # Farewell to the vale and meadow, - and the slopes of Cefn Gwyn
0:31:53 > 0:32:00- # Farewell to the church and its - noise, and the lakeside paths
0:32:01 > 0:32:07- # As I bid adieu to Meirion, - even though my voice may sound happy
0:32:09 > 0:32:21- # As I hear the old songs, - Oh! The pain in my heart #
0:32:23 > 0:32:27- Those are the words - of author Lewis Davies Jones...
0:32:27 > 0:32:29- ..or Llew Tegid from Llangower.
0:32:29 > 0:32:34- He describes the longing for his - home perfectly in the last verse.
0:32:34 > 0:32:39- As we left the lake, it was time - to head back to Llanuwchllyn...
0:32:39 > 0:32:43- ..for a chat about - one of the area's stalwarts.
0:32:43 > 0:32:45- The late, Derec Williams.
0:32:45 > 0:32:47- He was originally from Anglesey.
0:32:48 > 0:32:50- He lived in Llanuwchllyn for years.
0:32:50 > 0:32:54- Derec Williams was one of the - founders of Cwmni Theatr Maldwyn...
0:32:54 > 0:32:58- ..along with Linda Gittins - and Penri Roberts.
0:32:58 > 0:33:03- They've given hundreds of local kids - the chance to perform on stage.
0:33:04 > 0:33:09- Penri, you've been busy putting - on concerts in tribute to Derec...
0:33:09 > 0:33:13- ..and to your work - with the theatre group.
0:33:13 > 0:33:17- Throughout the last year - we've put on a concert called...
0:33:17 > 0:33:20- .."Cadw'r Fflam Yn Fyw" - - Keep The Flame Alive.
0:33:21 > 0:33:24- It included parts from musicals - through our history.
0:33:24 > 0:33:26- How many shows have you put on?
0:33:26 > 0:33:29- How many shows have you put on?- - We've done 12 original musicals.
0:33:29 > 0:33:31- I'm very jealous.
0:33:31 > 0:33:34- I didn't do any musicals - when I was younger.
0:33:34 > 0:33:36- I was only an hour and a half away.
0:33:36 > 0:33:38- I was only an hour and a half away.- - We started in 1980.
0:33:38 > 0:33:41- Our first musical, - Y Mab Darogan...
0:33:42 > 0:33:45- ..was at the National Eisteddfod - in Machynlleth.
0:33:45 > 0:33:46- What was he like?
0:33:46 > 0:33:49- What was he like?- - Der was a very enthusiastic man.
0:33:50 > 0:33:52- He was a natural leader.
0:33:53 > 0:33:55- He was always game for a joke.
0:33:55 > 0:33:59- Der and I would write the book, - if you will...
0:34:00 > 0:34:04- ..and then we'd give each other - parts to write the Libretto.
0:34:04 > 0:34:07- Der couldn't sing in tune - but he knew full well...
0:34:08 > 0:34:10- ..what rhythm or feeling a song had.
0:34:12 > 0:34:17- It worked. He sat there and listened - and would say yes or no.
0:34:18 > 0:34:22- You've grown up with - Cwmni Theatr Maldwyn in the house.
0:34:22 > 0:34:26- Yes and in addition - to the cultural side...
0:34:26 > 0:34:31- ..the important message we got from - Dad through Cwmni Theatr Maldwyn...
0:34:31 > 0:34:34- ..was how important commitment was.
0:34:34 > 0:34:36- At the end of every performance...
0:34:37 > 0:34:41- ..he'd escape to the back of the - auditorium to jump and shout...
0:34:41 > 0:34:44- ..to get that - final 1% out of the chorus.
0:34:46 > 0:34:49- # In amongst the uncertainty
0:34:49 > 0:34:52- # Through the pain and bruising
0:34:53 > 0:34:56- # I know that you are there
0:34:57 > 0:35:00- # With tomorrow in your voice
0:35:01 > 0:35:05- # As I love every horizon I see
0:35:06 > 0:35:09- # A horizon is a beginning
0:35:09 > 0:35:16- # I'll start each day - that comes my way
0:35:16 > 0:35:23- # Your news comes to me - from the verge
0:35:24 > 0:35:29- # To challenge me - in my moment of weakness
0:35:30 > 0:35:32- # Here's the flame
0:35:32 > 0:35:35- # The flame that burns
0:35:37 > 0:35:39- # Here's the flame
0:35:41 > 0:35:44- # The flame inside
0:35:44 > 0:35:46- # Through the years
0:35:47 > 0:35:49- # Through the years
0:35:50 > 0:35:54- # We'll all keep the flame
0:35:54 > 0:35:58- # Keep the flame alive #
0:35:59 > 0:36:03- You don't know if you've succeeded - in writing a song until you have.
0:36:03 > 0:36:07- When I set about writing - a song in Derec's memory...
0:36:07 > 0:36:12- ..it wouldn't be sentimental, - it wouldn't be a bleak song...
0:36:12 > 0:36:18- ..I wanted to show his enthusiasm - and his character in the song.
0:36:18 > 0:36:22- Linda and Penri did an amazing job - writing the song...
0:36:22 > 0:36:24- ..considering the situation.
0:36:24 > 0:36:27- I know Dad would hate the fuss. - He hated any attention.
0:36:28 > 0:36:31- # The fire burned brightly
0:36:32 > 0:36:35- # The heat that gave us life
0:36:36 > 0:36:39- # The voice against injustice
0:36:40 > 0:36:43- # And the balm of wise words
0:36:43 > 0:36:47- # The sound of laughter - came to ease the pain
0:36:50 > 0:36:55- # The merriment comes - to dry your eyes
0:36:58 > 0:37:02- # The leg pulling - and constant challenges
0:37:05 > 0:37:11- # The red light explodes in the dawn
0:37:11 > 0:37:13- # This is the flame
0:37:13 > 0:37:16- # The flame that burns
0:37:16 > 0:37:19- # The flame that burns tonight
0:37:20 > 0:37:23- # The flame inside us all
0:37:23 > 0:37:26- # Here's the flame
0:37:26 > 0:37:32- # And through the years, - we'll insist
0:37:32 > 0:37:38- # We'll keep the flame, - we'll keep the flame alive
0:37:39 > 0:37:43- # Keep the flame, - keep the flame alive
0:37:43 > 0:37:45- # Here's the flame
0:37:45 > 0:37:47- # Keep the flame
0:37:48 > 0:37:51- # Keep the flame alive
0:37:52 > 0:37:57- # We'll keep the flame
0:37:57 > 0:38:03- # Keep the flame alive #
0:38:07 > 0:38:07- .
0:38:11 > 0:38:11- Subtitles
0:38:11 > 0:38:13- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:38:18 > 0:38:23- The last leg of my journey takes me - from Penllyn to the Lleyn Peninsula.
0:38:23 > 0:38:25- I'm headed to Llanbedrog.
0:38:25 > 0:38:29- I have warm memories of spending - my holidays on Quarry Beach...
0:38:29 > 0:38:34- ..with my parents, my brother, Ian - Arwel, and my friends in my youth.
0:38:35 > 0:38:38- I'm here now for another reason.
0:38:38 > 0:38:43- I remember my parents talking - about a baritone from Llanbedrog.
0:38:44 > 0:38:48- He was famous all over Wales - for his incredible voice.
0:38:49 > 0:38:51- His name was Elwyn Jones.
0:38:51 > 0:38:52- He lived here.
0:38:53 > 0:38:58- I'm on my way to Rehoboth Chapel - to learn more about him.
0:39:05 > 0:39:10- He was born in Llanelhaearn by Nefyn - before moving to live in Llanbedrog.
0:39:10 > 0:39:15- He started singing in his twenties - and he won the Blue Ribband in 1957.
0:39:15 > 0:39:19- It was at the - National Eisteddfod in Llangefni.
0:39:19 > 0:39:21- He soon came - to the nation's attention...
0:39:22 > 0:39:25- ..and had a successful - recording career.
0:39:25 > 0:39:30- Dafydd, what was so special - about Elwyn Jones' voice?
0:39:30 > 0:39:33- What made it appeal so much?
0:39:33 > 0:39:36- You know how we say - people sing from the heart.
0:39:37 > 0:39:40- To me, that was Elwyn's big secret.
0:39:41 > 0:39:47- He sang songs that could sound - sentimental with other singers.
0:39:47 > 0:39:51- He convinced the audience that - he believed what he was singing.
0:39:52 > 0:39:57- # So near several times
0:39:57 > 0:40:02- # To the evident vision of faith
0:40:03 > 0:40:09- # Is my Father's house, - and my destination
0:40:09 > 0:40:14- # And the break of heavenly day #
0:40:14 > 0:40:18- I was over the moon - that he recorded with us.
0:40:19 > 0:40:23- He had a strong voice. - There was nobody like him.
0:40:23 > 0:40:26- I would say - at the end of the 1960s...
0:40:26 > 0:40:31- ..he sold the most records - outside of pop singers.
0:40:32 > 0:40:34- That's another part of his appeal.
0:40:35 > 0:40:40- He's one of the few people whose - home became synonymous with them.
0:40:40 > 0:40:41- Llanbedrog.
0:40:41 > 0:40:44- As an accompanist...
0:40:44 > 0:40:47- ..you accompanied Elwyn.
0:40:47 > 0:40:49- Yes, I got the opportunity.
0:40:49 > 0:40:53- I remember the experience - from when I was at university.
0:40:53 > 0:40:55- There was a cymanfa on Anglesey.
0:40:56 > 0:40:58- He sang two songs, - Fy Enw I Lawr and Gweddi Mam.
0:40:59 > 0:41:01- I remember a brief rehearsal.
0:41:01 > 0:41:04- He had this powerful voice.
0:41:04 > 0:41:08- I remember looking - around the chapel.
0:41:08 > 0:41:13- People had their handkerchiefs out - and were crying.
0:41:14 > 0:41:20- His singing was so emotional - and it hit people in their hearts.
0:41:21 > 0:41:26- In the chapel, it was nice to - reminisce with his son, Dilwyn.
0:41:27 > 0:41:28- Back in chapel, how do you feel?
0:41:28 > 0:41:31- Back in chapel, how do you feel?- - I liked to come here as a child.
0:41:31 > 0:41:33- That would be years ago by now.
0:41:33 > 0:41:37- Dad would lead the singing - as an elder.
0:41:37 > 0:41:38- Mam would play the organ.
0:41:39 > 0:41:41- I'd sit with Nain in the back.
0:41:41 > 0:41:46- We'd have a lot of fun together, - we were very close.
0:41:46 > 0:41:49- We made the first record in Swansea.
0:41:49 > 0:41:53- We stayed at a hotel in Lampeter.
0:41:54 > 0:41:57- On Saturday morning, - before recording...
0:41:57 > 0:42:01- ..he lost his false teeth - down the hotel sink.
0:42:02 > 0:42:06- We had to get his false teeth. - He couldn't record without them.
0:42:07 > 0:42:08- Oh, no!
0:42:08 > 0:42:11- He was lucky to get - the teeth back that morning.
0:42:12 > 0:42:16- Looking at a cross section - of what your father's done...
0:42:17 > 0:42:21- ..quite a few hymns - and a few solos too.
0:42:21 > 0:42:23- They're Welsh ones.
0:42:23 > 0:42:25- They're emotional ones.
0:42:25 > 0:42:29- A Yw Fy Enw I Lawr? is my favourite.
0:42:30 > 0:42:31- A lot of people like that.
0:42:41 > 0:42:51- # I will not ask for wealth, - gold or silver of the world
0:42:52 > 0:42:56- # But to have assurance from heaven
0:42:56 > 0:43:02- # That I will seek always
0:43:02 > 0:43:07- # To be found - in the great book of thy kingdom
0:43:07 > 0:43:12- # A book - with its leaves like the dawn
0:43:13 > 0:43:19- # Say, Jesus my Saviour
0:43:19 > 0:43:24- # Is my name got down?
0:43:25 > 0:43:28- # Is my name got down?
0:43:29 > 0:43:32- # In the great divine book?
0:43:34 > 0:43:39- # Oh, I would love to know
0:43:39 > 0:43:45- # That my name is down!
0:43:52 > 0:43:57- # Oh! Dwellings of the city
0:43:57 > 0:44:01- # Which shine in light
0:44:01 > 0:44:05- # And a great, glorious throng
0:44:05 > 0:44:10- # In white garments which are pure
0:44:11 > 0:44:15- # No evil will come there
0:44:16 > 0:44:19- # To sully their dawn
0:44:20 > 0:44:25- # Where the angels are waiting
0:44:26 > 0:44:30- # Is my name got down?
0:44:31 > 0:44:34- # Is my name got down?
0:44:36 > 0:44:40- # In the great divine book?
0:44:40 > 0:44:46- # Oh, I would love to know
0:44:47 > 0:44:56- # That my name is down!
0:45:05 > 0:45:12- I'm heading north towards the Eifl - mountains, I need my walking shoes.
0:45:12 > 0:45:16- Anni Llyn knows this area well.
0:45:16 > 0:45:20- She's going to show me - a part of her home now.
0:45:20 > 0:45:23- We're lucky on Lleyn, we have - a lot of nice places to walk.
0:45:24 > 0:45:27- We have the coastal path - and the Eifl mountains.
0:45:27 > 0:45:29- This is a very special place.
0:45:30 > 0:45:35- You've got three peaks, Garn For, - Garn Ganol and Tre'r Ceiri.
0:45:35 > 0:45:41- Tre'r Ceiri is the most famous, - there are iron age remains there.
0:45:41 > 0:45:44- There's a stunning hill fort there.
0:45:46 > 0:45:49- Anni, this is your part of Lleyn.
0:45:50 > 0:45:53- Tell us what's hiding - in those trees.
0:45:53 > 0:45:56- Nant Gwrtheyrn is in the trees.
0:45:57 > 0:45:59- You can see a little of it - from here.
0:45:59 > 0:46:03- The name Gwrtheyrn takes us back - to the middle ages and beyond.
0:46:04 > 0:46:06- Gwrtheyrn was a Brythonic king.
0:46:06 > 0:46:11- According to the legend he fled here - to hide from a Saxon king.
0:46:11 > 0:46:14- I love hearing you say Gwrtheyrn.
0:46:14 > 0:46:18- Only people from Lleyn - can say it properly.
0:46:26 > 0:46:30- The more we head along this path, - the further we can see...
0:46:30 > 0:46:33- ..towards Nefyn golf course.
0:46:33 > 0:46:38- That's right, Nefyn golf course, but - in the far corner on the beach...
0:46:39 > 0:46:41- ..is the village of Porthdinllaen.
0:46:42 > 0:46:45- You can feel the history - of the place there.
0:46:45 > 0:46:52- You can sense the history of - fisherman, pirates and sail boats.
0:46:52 > 0:46:56- Quite a few legends - have been made there.
0:46:56 > 0:47:01- Porthdinllaen was immortalized by - J Glyn Davies' words, Flat Huw Puw.
0:47:03 > 0:47:06- He was an academic, - a collector of folk songs...
0:47:06 > 0:47:09- ..a collector of sailors' shanties - and a poet.
0:47:10 > 0:47:13- Shenandoah is a famous sailors' - shanty that he loved.
0:47:13 > 0:47:17- He wrote words in memory of - his brother on that tune.
0:47:17 > 0:47:22- In Wales, we know him better - for his words Edrych Tuag Adre.
0:47:22 > 0:47:25- That's what I've been able - to do up here today.
0:47:25 > 0:47:28- I'm looking toward my home.
0:47:28 > 0:47:30- Wonderful, Anni. Very interesting.
0:47:35 > 0:47:41- # Do you hear the song, - the ship is sailing
0:47:42 > 0:47:47- # And we are heading home
0:47:49 > 0:47:55- # We won't see the land tonight
0:47:55 > 0:48:02- # Such fair lads
0:48:02 > 0:48:09- # We're looking toward home
0:48:13 > 0:48:19- # We'll see no land in a few hours
0:48:19 > 0:48:25- # As we are heading home
0:48:26 > 0:48:31- # We'll see the sea, - the stars and sails
0:48:33 > 0:48:39- # Such fair lads
0:48:39 > 0:48:46- # We're looking toward home
0:48:55 > 0:48:57- It's nice to look toward home.
0:48:57 > 0:49:01- That really encapsulates - how I feel right now.
0:49:01 > 0:49:04- Singing takes me all over the world.
0:49:05 > 0:49:11- Away from my family and my home, - just like the sailors in the song.
0:49:12 > 0:49:18- After a wonderful week of travelling - to the four corners of Wales...
0:49:18 > 0:49:22- ..I've ended my journey - in a place as wonderful as this.
0:49:23 > 0:49:26- Nowhere can beat the land of song.
0:49:29 > 0:49:35- # My brother hears the lads singing
0:49:36 > 0:49:42- # And we are heading home
0:49:43 > 0:49:49- # Before we round the horn, - back to Wales
0:49:50 > 0:49:56- # Such fair lads
0:49:57 > 0:50:05- # We're looking towards home #
0:50:53 > 0:50:55- S4C Subtitles by Testun Cyf.
0:50:55 > 0:50:55- .